# Explain why a student examining a cell under a light microscope might conclude that the cell is a plant cell rather than an animal cell. In your answer, refer to structures visible under a light microscope.

> AQA A-Level Biology (7402) — 3.2.1 Cell Structure · Explain · 5 marks

> A student prepares a slide of an unknown cell and examines it under a light microscope.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The student could see a cell wall, which is present in plant cells but not animal cells
2. The cell wall provides support / gives the cell a rigid, regular shape
3. The student could see a large permanent vacuole, which is present in plant cells but not animal cells
4. The student could see chloroplasts, which are present in plant cells but not animal cells
5. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll / are the site of photosynthesis, which does not occur in animal cells

## Key terms

- [light microscope](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/light-microscope)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Biology (7402)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-student-examining-a-88045219) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.